Name: Latrice Shepherd
Where you can find Latrice: Instagram
Nationality: American
Current Host Country: France
Years Abroad: 8
Years in Current Location: 8
Occupation: Lecturer of English & Expat Coach
I moved to my current country because: I wanted to learn French. I was a mature student in college studying International Relations and it was very difficult for me to pick up the language. Determined to become fluent I moved to Paris with intentions on staying six months to a year. I never moved back after I arrived.
The three things you need to make it here is: Audacity, Adaptability &
Gumption.
The Best thing about living in my host country has been:
Job protection and free healthcare.
My favorite experience living here has been…Rediscovering myself and living my life on my own terms. I followed my dreams. While I was in the US preparing for my move so many adult women shared how they wanted to move away but couldn’t due to family, marriage or children. I’ve never wanted to live my life saying should’ve ,could’ve, would’ve. I’ve chosen to live life boldly and pursue my dreams to the fullest. I chose me.
If you’re considering living here, you need : Leave behind your preconceived notions about how things should be done or how things are done in the US. France is not the US. As a result, things are done differently here. It’s pointless for travelers or expats to compare the two. If you want to be an expat you have to learn to go with the flow even when it seems archaic when compared to the States.
The biggest lesson I learned as an expat is...
I can do absolutely anything I set my mind to. It takes a certain person to move to a country where they don't know anyone nor the language. I am very proud to be a part of such an exclusive and audacious group of people known as Black American Expats.
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